Organic Component Is A Fat, Fatty Alcohol, Fatty Oil, Ester-type Wax, Fatty Still Residue, Or Higher Fatty Acid Or Salt Thereof Patents (Class 507/138)
  • Publication number: 20100317550
    Abstract: This invention relates to drilling fluids and processes for making drilling fluids, such as for use in environmentally sensitive areas. The environmentally friendly drilling fluid includes a first fluid component having between about 5 weight percent to about 95 weight percent of olefins with a chain length in a range of between about C12 and about C48. The first fluid component includes at least about 50 weight percent trisubstituted olefin functionality. The environmentally friendly drilling fluid includes a second fluid component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Burnell Lee, Georgia Lambert, Vahid Bagheri, Heath Chisholm
  • Publication number: 20100317549
    Abstract: An oil-in-water emulsion that includes a brine continuous phase; and an oleaginous discontinuous phase stabilized by an emulsifier blend, the emulsifier blend comprising: an emulsifier having an HLB greater than 11; and an amphoteric chemotrope is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: M-I LLC
    Inventors: Eugene Dakin, Hui Zhang, Bethicia B. Prasek
  • Publication number: 20100305009
    Abstract: The use of oligoglycerol fatty acid esters, prepared from (a) an acid component chosen from (a1) fatty acids of the general formula (I) R—COOH??(I) in which R represents a saturated or unsaturated, branched or linear alkyl or alkenyl radical having 7 to 21 C atoms, and/or (a2) dicarboxylic acids and/or (a3) dimer fatty acids and/or (a4) oligomer fatty acids and/or (a5) hydroxy fatty acids with (b) a polyol component which is chosen from oligoglycerols or alkoxylates of oligoglycerols, as an additive in water-based drilling mud compositions for improving the lubricating action of these mud systems, is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventors: Alfred Westfechtel, Diana Maker, Heinz Muller
  • Patent number: 7842650
    Abstract: The invention relates to a composition for producing foams, in particular for mineral oil and natural gas production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Ulrich Steinbrenner
  • Publication number: 20100298174
    Abstract: A method of slurrifying drill cuttings that includes admixing oil-contaminated drill cuttings, water, and at least one surface active agent; emulsifying at least a portion of the oil contaminants within the mixture; and forming a pourable slurry of drill cuttings in water is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventors: Mostafa Ahmadi Tehrani, Mary Ann George
  • Publication number: 20100298176
    Abstract: The use is described of oligoglycerol fatty acid esters, produced from (a) an acid component, selected from (a1) fatty acids of the general formula (I) R—COOH??(I) in which R stands for a saturated or unsaturated, branched or linear alkyl- or alkenyl radical with 7 to 21C atoms, and/or (a2) dicarboxylic acids and/or (a3) dimer fatty acids and/or (a4) oligomer fatty acids and/or (a5) hydroxy fatty acids with (b) a polyol component, which is selected from oligoglycerols or alkoxylates of oligoglycerols, as additive to oil-based drilling mud compositions to improve the lubricating effect of these mud systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventors: Diana Maker, Heinz Muller
  • Patent number: 7829507
    Abstract: The present invention relates to bridging agents for use in subterranean formations, to well drill-in and servicing fluids comprising such bridging agents, and to methods of using such bridging agents and well drill-in and servicing fluids in subterranean drilling operations. An example of a well drill-in and servicing fluid of the present invention comprises a viscosified fluid, a fluid loss control additive, and a bridging agent comprising a degradable material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley L. Todd, Trinidad Munoz, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100258313
    Abstract: A wellbore fluid that includes an oleaginous continuous phase; a non-oleaginous discontinuous phase comprising a water-soluble silicate therein; and an emulsifier to stabilize the non-oleaginous phase dispersed in the oleaginous phase is disclosed. A setting agent, including organic or inorganic setting agent may optionally be included to trigger gelation or precipitation of the silicate downhole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: M-I DRILLING FLUIDS UK LIMITED
    Inventor: David Antony Ballard
  • Publication number: 20100258307
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a drilling composition comprising an organic phase having at least one linear or branched, cyclic or non-cyclic, saturated hydrocarbon, at least one ester, water or aqueous phase, and at least one additive. The present invention additionally relates to the use and preparation of the drilling composition, to a drilling system, to a process for making a borehole, to a process for conveying cuttings, to a process for treating a drill head, and to a process for production of oil and/or gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventors: Heinz Muller, Nadja Herzog, Diana Maker
  • Publication number: 20100256021
    Abstract: Oligoglycerol esters of fatty acids, preferably of unsaturated fatty acids, can be used as thickeners in oil-based drilling mud compositions. The oligoglycerides are preferably employed in invert drilling muds, the oily phase of which contains paraffins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventors: Heinz Muller, Diana Maker, Nadja Herzog
  • Publication number: 20100248996
    Abstract: The invention provides an oil-based wellbore fluid in the form of an emulsion which comprises a continuous phase comprising an oil and, dispersed therein, a first dispersed liquid phase and a second separate dispersed liquid phase, the first dispersed liquid phase being a brine phase, and the second dispersed liquid phase comprising a polar organic liquid, said polar organic liquid being insoluble or sparingly soluble in the brine comprising said first dispersed liquid phase, but being soluble in pure water. There is also provided a method of carrying out a wellbore operation, which includes the steps of (a) introducing into a wellbore a wellbore fluid of the invention; (b) allowing a filter-cake to form; and subsequently (c) allowing a further fluid to come into contact with the filter-cake, said further fluid having a level of salinity which is lower than the level of salinity of said first dispersed liquid phase, and being such that said polar organic liquid is soluble therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher Alan Sawdon
  • Patent number: 7799742
    Abstract: A method of providing a substantially constant rheological profile of a drilling fluid over a temperature range of about 120° F. to about 40° F. includes adding a drilling fluid additive to the drilling fluid, wherein the drilling fluid additive includes the reaction product of a carboxylic acid with at least two carboxylic moieties; and a polyamine having an amine functionality of two or more. A composition, such as an oil based drilling fluid, includes the reaction product of a carboxylic acid with at least two carboxylic moieties and a polyamine having an amine functionality of two or more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Elementis Specialties Inc.
    Inventor: David Dino
  • Patent number: 7795184
    Abstract: A method of altering the properties of a drilling fluid includes adding effective amounts of crushed or whole oilseeds or mixtures of crushed or whole oilseeds to a drilling fluid. The crushed or whole oilseeds or mixture of crushed or whole oilseeds are selected to impart any one of or a combination of effects including but not limited to: an increase in drilling fluid emulsion stability in oil-based or invert emulsion fluids, decreased specific gravity of the drilling fluid, seepage loss control, filtration control, oil wetting and deflocculation/dispersion, of entrained solids and/or reduced torque and drag of the drilling string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Engineered Drilling Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Guy Pomerleau
  • Patent number: 7795193
    Abstract: A base for electric insulating oil comprising an esterification product from a C8-C20 higher fatty acid and a C6-C14 branched aliphatic monohydric alcohol; or a base for electric insulating oil comprising an esterification product from a mixed fatty acid derived from palm oil and/or mixed fatty acid derived from soybean oil and a C1-C5 aliphatic monohydric alcohol or C6-C14 branched aliphatic monohydric alcohol. The thus provided base for electric insulating oil excels in viscosity, fluidity, chemical stability, etc. and is capable of satisfactorily exhibiting electrical characteristics of electric insulating oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignees: Lion Corporation, Japan AE Power Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Mitsuhiko Takei, Takaaki Kanoh, Hidenobu Koide, Kiyoshi Fujii
  • Publication number: 20100204067
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a drilling fluid additive for improving lubricity or rate of penetration (ROP) in a drilling operation, such as an oil and gas drilling operation. The additive comprises particles of wax or waxy substance, or a mixture of two or more types of said particles having distinct properties, such as particle size, type of wax or waxy substance, melt point, solubility, dissolution rate, hardness, shape, blocking ability, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the additive is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. The invention also relates to a drilling fluid comprising the drilling fluid additive of the invention. A method of improving lubricity or increasing ROP in a drilling operation is also provided, as well as a use of particles of wax or waxy substance or mixture thereof as a drilling fluid additive for improving lubricity or increasing ROP in a drilling operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: CANADIAN ENERGY SERVICES, L.P.
    Inventor: Terry W Hoskins
  • Publication number: 20100173805
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for improving the performance of invert drilling fluids are provided. In particular, waxes are used in drilling fluid compositions to improve the performance of organophilic clays within a drilling solution as well as to improve seepage control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: ENGINEERED DRILLING SOLUTIONS INC.
    Inventor: Daniel Guy Pomerleau
  • Patent number: 7749941
    Abstract: The invention provides aqueous based well drilling and servicing fluids containing a polymer viscosifier with enhanced thermal stability provided by a diacid or diacid salt preferably having about two to about eight carbon atoms, such as, for example, sodium oxalate. The invention also provides a method of enhancing the thermal stability of aqueous based well drilling and servicing fluids containing a polymer viscosifer by adding diacid or diacid salt to the fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jody L. Maresh, William W. Shumway, Kenneth W. Pober
  • Publication number: 20100168255
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for preparing a compound having at least one ether group, at least one ester group, at least one amino group or at least one urethane group by a1) preparing 1,2-propanediol by means of a process wherein glycerol is hydrogenated in the presence of a catalyst, glycerol being reacted to at most 95% and a 1,2-propanediol phase obtained and a2) reacting the 1,2-propanediol phase with a compound having at least one active hydrogen atom, at least one epoxide group, at least one ester group or at least one isocyanate group. The present invention relates to the compounds which can be obtained using this process and the chemical products, emulsions, cosmetic formulations, plastics material compositions and drilling compositions prepared using the compound and the use and preparations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Alfred Westfechtel, Elke Grundt, Peter Daute, Norbert Klein
  • Patent number: 7709421
    Abstract: Single phase microemulsions improve the removal of filter cakes formed during drilling with oil-based muds (OBMs). The single phase microemulsion removes oil and solids from the deposited filter cake. Optionally, an acid capable of solubilizing the filter cake bridging particles may also be used with the microemulsion. In one non-limiting embodiment the acid may be a polyamino carboxylic acid. Skin damage removal from internal and external filter cake deposition can be reduced. In another optional embodiment, the single phase microemulsion may contain a filtration control additive for delaying the filter cake removal, destruction or conversion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas A. Jones, David E. Clark, Lirio Quintero
  • Patent number: 7704926
    Abstract: The present invention provides aqueous viscoelastic compositions comprising a cleavable surfactant and possibly also an electrolyte. The cleavable surfactants useful in the present invention comprise at least one weak chemical bond, which is capable of being broken under appropriate conditions, to produce oil soluble and water soluble products typically having no interfacial properties and surface activity compared with the original surfactant molecule. Further, the rheological properties of the aqueous viscolelastic composition are usually altered upon cleavage of the cleavable surfactant generally resulting in the elimination of the viscofying, viscoelastic and surfactant properties of the composition. Aqueous viscoelastic compositions in accordance with the present invention are suitable for use in oil-field applications, particularly for hydraulic fracturing of subterranean formations. Thus, the present invention also relates to a wellbore service fluid and a method of fracturing a subterranean formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jian Zhou, Trevor Hughes
  • Patent number: 7696131
    Abstract: Diesel oil-based invert emulsion drilling fluids having fragile gel properties and improved performance. Methods are also disclosed for drilling, running casing, cementing, and/or producing hydrocarbons in a subterranean formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Oyler, Kimberly J. Burrows, Gary C. West, Don Siems, Jeff Kirsner
  • Patent number: 7687439
    Abstract: Single phase microemulsions improve the removal of filter cakes formed during drilling with invert emulsions. The single phase microemulsion removes oil and solids from the deposited filter cake. Optionally, an acid capable of solubilizing the filter cake bridging particles may also be used with the microemulsion. In one non-limiting embodiment the acid may be a polyamino carboxylic acid. Skin damage removal from internal and external filter cake deposition can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas A. Jones, David E. Clark, Lirio Quintero, Bruce Rae Ewen
  • Patent number: 7666820
    Abstract: The invention relates to a borehole treatment composition containing an aqueous phase and a non-aqueous oil phase, emulsifiers and, where appropriate, further customary additives, the non-aqueous oil phase containing at least one of a) paraffins having from 5 to 22 carbon atoms; and b) internal olefins having from 12 to 30 carbon atoms in the molecule; in the form of a blend with c) carboxylic esters of the formula R—COO—R?, where R stands for a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl radical having from 15 to 25 carbon atoms and R? denotes a saturated, linear or branched alkyl radical having from 3 to 22 carbon atoms. The ratio of the toxicity of internal olefins of chain length C16/C18 (standard IO) to the toxicity of the constituents of the non-aqueous oil phase, in each case measured by the Leptocheirus plumulosus acute, static 96 hour/10 day sediment toxicity test (in accordance with ASTM E 1367-92 & EPA/600/R-94/025, Section 11), is less than 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Emery Oleochemicals GmbH
    Inventors: Heinz Mueller, Nadja Herzog, Stephan Von Tapavicza
  • Patent number: 7645723
    Abstract: A method for drilling, running casing in, and/or cementing a borehole in a subterranean formation without significant loss of drilling fluid is disclosed, as well as compositions for use in such method. The method employs a drilling fluid comprising a fragile gel or having fragile gel behavior and providing superior oil mud rheology and overall performance. The fluid is especially advantageous for use in deep water wells because the fluid exhibits minimal difference between downhole equivalent circulating density and surface density notwithstanding differences in drilling or penetration rates. When an ester and isomerized olefin blend is used for the base of the fluid, the fluid makes an environmentally acceptable and regulatory compliant invert emulsion drilling fluid. The fluid preferably contains no organophilic clays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services
    Inventors: Jeff Kirsner, Don Siems, Kimberly Burrows-Lawson, David Carbajal
  • Patent number: 7635667
    Abstract: Multi-component additive for incorporation into a drilling fluid, and a drilling fluid system comprising said multi-component additive. The additive preferably comprises three primary components: (1) a rate of penetration enhancer, namely one of a number of synthetic (non-toxic) ester-based or olefin-based oils as a carrier for other additives, such as surfactants; (2) a lubricant, namely one or more of a number of chlorinated waxes, chlorinated olefins, and plant based fatty acids; and (3) a clay inhibitor/stabilizer, such as a polyglycol. Preferably, the three components are pre-mixed in a single container, for ease in use in adding to a drilling fluid system. The additive may be incorporated into a drilling fluid system at a shore based facility, and the “liquid mud” transported to a drilling rig; or the additive may be brought to the drilling rig and incorporated into a drilling fluid system on site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Ambar Lonestar Fluid Services, LLC
    Inventor: Ronald L. Brazzel
  • Publication number: 20090260885
    Abstract: This invention relates to compositions and methods for improving the performance of organophilic organic-clay complexes, which are dispersible in organic liquids to form a gel therein. Depending on the composition of the gel, such gels may be useful as lubricating greases, oil-based muds, oil base packer fluids, paint-varnish-lacquer removers, paints, foundry molding sand binders, adhesives and sealants, inks, polyester laminating resins, polyester gel coats, cosmetics, detergents, and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel Guy Pomerleau
  • Publication number: 20090215629
    Abstract: Fatty esters of oligoesters of a dicarboxylic acid and a polyol retaining at least one free hydroxyl group, particularly of the formula (I): R1—[OR2O—C(O)—R3—(O)C—]m—R4 (I), where R1 is H, a monocarboxylic acid group, or R6O—[C(O)—R3—(O)C]—; R2s are residues of polyols having at least one substituent free hydroxyl; R3s are hydrocarbylene; R4 is —OH, —OM where M is a salt forming metal, amine or ammonium, —OR6, or —OR2O—R7; R5 is C7 to C21 hydrocarbyl; R6 is C8 to C22 hydrocarbyl; R7 is H, or —C(O)R5; and m is 1 to 20; provided that at least one of R1 and R4 is or includes a C8 to C22 group, are surfactants. A range of surfactant properties can be obtained by varying the molecules within these ranges. Especially where R2 is derived from a higher polyol e.g. sorbitol, R3 is C2 to C6, and the fatty terminal group is C8 to C14, the products can be highly water soluble and effective oil in water emulsifiers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Hanamanthsa S. Bevinakatti, Alan G. Waite
  • Patent number: 7566686
    Abstract: An under-balanced drilling fluid additive is disclosed which reduces reactive shale and/or clay swelling during under-balanced drilling operations, where the additive includes an effective amount of a choline salt. A method for under-balanced drilling is also disclosed including the step of circulating a drilling fluid including an effective amount of a choline salt to reduce reactive shale and/or clay swelling during under-balanced drilling operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Clearwater International, LLC
    Inventors: David P. Kippie, Larry W. Gatlin
  • Patent number: 7547663
    Abstract: Methods for drilling, running casing in, and/or cementing a borehole in a subterranean formation without significant loss of drilling fluid are disclosed, as well as compositions for use in such methods. The methods employ drilling fluids comprising fragile gels or having fragile gel behavior and providing superior oil mud rheology and overall performance. The fluids are especially advantageous for use in offshore wells because the fluids exhibit minimal differences between downhole equivalent circulating densities and surface densities notwithstanding differences in drilling or penetration rates. When an ester and isomerized olefin blend is used for the base of the fluids, the fluids make environmentally acceptable and regulatory compliant invert emulsion drilling fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Kirsner, Don Siems, Kimberly Burrows-Lawson, David Carbajal, Ian Robb, Dale E. Jamison
  • Patent number: 7541315
    Abstract: Disclosed are paraffin inhibitors prepared by admixing a polymer having the characteristic of inhibiting paraffin crystalline growth in formation fluid from oil and gas wells with a first solvent selected from the weak to moderate wax solvents and a second solvent selected from the strong wax solvents. Exemplary weak to moderate wax solvents include benzene, toluene, xylene, ethyl benzene, propyl benzene, trimethyl benzene and mixtures thereof. Exemplary strong wax solvents include cyclopentane, cyclohexane, carbon disulfide, decalin and mixtures thereof. The solvent system disclosed has desirably better solubility with the polymers, even at reduced temperatures, than either solvent alone. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: David Wayne Jennings
  • Publication number: 20090126999
    Abstract: The present invention relates, in general, to subterranean fluids, and more particularly, to subterranean drilling fluids that may be useful for reducing the production of water from a portion of a subterranean formation and/or stabilizing an unconsolidated portion of a subterranean formation while drilling. In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods of reducing the flow of water from a portion of a subterranean formation that comprise contacting the portion of the subterranean formation with an organoaluminum compound, the organoaluminum compound being capable of forming a reaction product in the presence of water. The present invention also includes methods of drilling a well bore in a subterranean formation, methods of enhancing the stability of an unconsolidated portion of a subterranean formation, methods of stabilizing an unconsolidated portion of a subterranean formation, and drilling fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Eric Davidson
  • Publication number: 20090126931
    Abstract: The present invention relates, in general, to subterranean fluids, and more particularly, to subterranean drilling fluids that may be useful for reducing the production of water from a portion of a subterranean formation and/or stabilizing an unconsolidated portion of a subterranean formation while drilling. In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods of reducing the flow of water from a portion of a subterranean formation that comprise contacting the portion of the subterranean formation with an organoaluminum compound, the organoaluminum compound being capable of forming a reaction product in the presence of water. The present invention also includes methods of drilling a well bore in a subterranean formation, methods of enhancing the stability of an unconsolidated portion of a subterranean formation, methods of stabilizing an unconsolidated portion of a subterranean formation, and drilling fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Eric Davidson
  • Patent number: 7534743
    Abstract: Methods for drilling, running casing in, and/or cementing a borehole in a subterranean formation without significant loss of drilling fluid are disclosed, as well as compositions for use in such methods. The methods employ drilling fluids comprising fragile gels or having fragile gel behavior and providing superior oil mud rheology and overall performance. The fluids are especially advantageous for use in offshore wells because the fluids exhibit minimal differences between downhole equivalent circulating densities and surface densities notwithstanding differences in drilling or penetration rates. When an ester and isomerized olefin blend is used for the base of the fluids, the fluids make environmentally acceptable and regulatory compliant invert emulsion drilling fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Kirsner, Don Siems, Kimberly Burrows-Lawson, David Carbajal, Ian Robb, Dale E. Jamison
  • Patent number: 7534746
    Abstract: A method and product is disclosed which provides emulsion stability and filtration control to invert emulsion drilling fluids. The product comprises a blend of a carboxylic acid terminated polyamide with distilled and processed tall oil fatty acids and/or distilled and processed tall oil resin acids. The product is extremely effective, even at temperatures as high as 350° F., decreasing by about two-thirds the amount of emulsifier generally required to formulate an effective drilling fluid. The product also greatly reduces and in many cases eliminates the need for conventional fluid loss additives, and additionally provides electrical stability. Moreover, the product has a pour point as low as about 20 degrees Fahrenheit with minimal solvents, thereby eliminating the need to ship large amounts of inert material for use, and may be transported in a highly active state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Miller
  • Patent number: 7507694
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a drilling fluid composition that comprises a surfactant-free emulsion comprising an oleaginous fluid, a fluid that is at least partially immiscible with the oleaginous fluid, and emulsion facilitating particles. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method of treating a subterranean formation comprising providing a treatment fluid that comprises a surfactant-free emulsion, the surfactant-free emulsion comprising an oleaginous fluid, a fluid that is at least partially immiscible with the oleaginous fluid, and emulsion facilitating particles; and treating the subterranean formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: William W. Shumway, Kenneth W. Pober, Jeff Kirsner
  • Publication number: 20090075846
    Abstract: Fluid producing wells may be treated with a water-in-oil emulsion for the removal or inhibition of unwanted solid particulates, including pipe dope, asphaltenes and paraffins. Such emulsions are of particular applicability in the displacement of oil base drilling muds and/or residues from such muds from producing wells. The water-in-oil emulsions may optionally contain a dispersing agent as well as a surfactant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Qi Qu, Richard F. Stevens, JR., David Alleman
  • Publication number: 20090054272
    Abstract: An emulsifier containing a modified graphite oxide material, which is a thermally exfoliated graphite oxide with a surface area of from about 300 m2/g to 2600 m2/g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: The Trustees of Princeton University
    Inventors: Robert K. PRUD'HOMME, Ilhan A. AKSAY, Douglas ADAMSON, Ahmed ABDALA
  • Publication number: 20090042746
    Abstract: A water based drilling fluid contains as additive one or more alkyl ethoxylates having the formula RO(CH2CH2O)nH; wherein: R is a C16-22alkyl group (preferably R is aliphatic and more preferably R is linear), and n is an integer in the range 2-30. The fluid further contains one or more viscosifying agents, and is substantially clay-free.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventor: Louise Bailey
  • Patent number: 7488704
    Abstract: Methods for drilling, running casing in, and/or cementing a borehole in a subterranean formation without significant loss of drilling fluid are disclosed, as well as compositions for use in such methods. The methods employ drilling fluids comprising fragile gels or having fragile gel behavior and providing superior oil mud rheology and overall performance. The fluids are especially advantageous for use in offshore wells because the fluids exhibit minimal differences between downhole equivalent circulating densities and surface densities notwithstanding differences in drilling or penetration rates. When an ester and isomerized olefin blend is used for the base of the fluids, the fluids make environmentally acceptable and regulatory compliant invert emulsion drilling fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Kirsner, Don Siems, Kimberly Burrows-Lawson, David Carbajal, Ian Robb, Dale E. Jamison
  • Publication number: 20090036331
    Abstract: An aqueous hydraulic fluid composition comprising a first lubricant comprising at least one phospholipid and a second lubricant comprising an alkoxylate salt. The aqueous hydraulic fluid composition contains less than about 20% by weight (preferably none or substantially none) of an oil selected from the group consisting of mineral oils, synthetic hydrocarbon oils, and mixtures thereof. The use of alkoxylate salts provides increased lubricity and also acts as an emulsion stabilizer for the composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Ian D. Smith
  • Patent number: 7462580
    Abstract: Methods for drilling, running casing in, and/or cementing a borehole in a subterranean formation without significant loss of drilling fluid are disclosed, as well as compositions for use in such methods. The methods employ drilling fluids comprising fragile gels or having fragile gel behavior and providing superior oil mud rheology and overall performance. The fluids are especially advantageous for use in offshore wells because the fluids exhibit minimal differences between downhole equivalent circulating densities and surface densities notwithstanding differences in drilling or penetration rates. When an ester and isomerized olefin blend is used for the base of the fluids, the fluids make environmentally acceptable and regulatory compliant invert emulsion drilling fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Kirsner, Don Siems, Kimberly Burrows-Lawson, David Carbajal, Ian Robb, Dale E. Jamison
  • Patent number: 7456135
    Abstract: Methods for drilling, running casing in, and/or cementing a borehole in a subterranean formation without significant loss of drilling fluid are disclosed, as well as compositions for use in such methods. The methods employ drilling fluids comprising fragile gels or having fragile gel behavior and providing superior oil mud rheology and overall performance. The fluids are especially advantageous for use in offshore wells because the fluids exhibit minimal differences between downhole equivalent circulating densities and surface densities notwithstanding differences in drilling or penetration rates. When an ester and isomerized olefin blend is used for the base of the fluids, the fluids make environmentally acceptable and regulatory compliant invert emulsion drilling fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Kirsner, Don Siems, Kimberly Burrows-Lawson, David Carbajal, Ian Robb, Dale E. Jamison
  • Patent number: 7449431
    Abstract: A method of controlling the pressure of a casing annulus in a subterranean well that includes injecting into the casing annulus a composition including a base fluid and a polymer coated colloidal solid material. The polymer coated colloidal solid material includes: a solid particle having an weight average particle diameter (d50) of less than two microns, and a polymeric dispersing agent coated onto the surface of the solid particle during the comminution (i.e. grinding) process utilized to make the colloidal particles. The polymeric dispersing agent may be a water soluble polymer having a molecular weight of at least 2000 Daltons. The solid particulate material may be selected from materials having of specific gravity of at least 2.68 and preferably the solid particulate material may be selected from barium sulfate (barite), calcium carbonate, dolomite, ilmenite, hematite, olivine, siderite, strontium sulfate, combinations and mixtures of these-and other similar solids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventors: Andrew J Bradbury, Christopher A. Sawdon, Sonny Clary, William M Reid, Tom Heinz
  • Patent number: 7435706
    Abstract: A method of reducing the viscosity of oil-based drilling fluids and well service fluids at low temperatures and a thinner compound for use in such drilling fluids and well service fluids is disclosed. The method comprises adding to said drilling fluids or well service fluids a thinner having the formula: R—(C2H4O)n(C3H6O)m(C4H8O)k-H where R is a saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched alkyl radical having about 8 to about 24 carbon atoms, n is a number ranging from about 1 to about 10, m is a number ranging form about 0 to about 10, and k is a number ranging from about 0 to about 10.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Heinz Mueller, Jeff Kirsner, Kimberly Burrows
  • Patent number: 7432230
    Abstract: A superior powder form of a metallic soap for enhancing the properties of an invert emulsion drilling fluid may be prepared by a dry process saponification reaction. The process includes mixing a source of metal cations with the product of a Diels-Alder reaction of dienophiles with fatty acids and/or resin acids and allowing the mixture to react. Heating the mixture increases the rate of reaction. The solid product is ground to form a powder. The properties of the drilling fluid that may be improved by adding the soap include filtration control, fluid loss control, emulsification and emulsion stability, and electrical stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Service, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20080217064
    Abstract: A drilling fluid comprising: a non-ionic surfactant including at least one of a branched alcohol ethoxylate and a capped alcohol ethoxylate, a detergent builder and a viscosifier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: TECHSTAR ENERGY SERVICES
    Inventors: STEFAN ALEXANDRU STOIAN, CARL KEITH SMITH
  • Patent number: 7419937
    Abstract: A method of delivering chemicals such as scale inhibitor into a wellbore producing fluids includes providing the chemicals, in a slow-release form, in a container located in the path of the production fluids so that the production fluids pass through the container. Preferably, the container is suspended in the production tubing and periodically retrieved from the well to be refilled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Brett Rimmer, Alan Saxon, Francisco Fragachan
  • Patent number: 7399731
    Abstract: A non-aqueous wellbore fluid comprises a non-aqueous continuous phase with one or more organic salts having the formula ((R1-Q)pX)mZn, one or more oligomeric organic salts based on linked ((R1-Q)pX)mZn subunits, or a combination thereof dissolved therein. X is a negatively charged functional group. R1 is an organic group comprising a principal straight chain and one or more side chains which branch from and are shorter than said principal straight chain. Q is a covalent bond or a polar linkage group which connects a terminal atom of the principal straight chain of the organic group R1 to the functional group X. p is a positive integer which is the number of organic groups R1 which are connected to the functional group X. Z is a cation. m and n are positive integers which ensure that the organic salts are charge neutral. The one or more organic salts increase the electrical conductivity of the wellbore fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventors: Timothy Gareth John Jones, Gary John Tustin
  • Patent number: 7354886
    Abstract: Pumpable multiple phase vesicle compositions carry agents and components downhole or through a conduit, and controllably releasing them at a different place and time by breaking the compositions. In one non-limiting embodiment the pumpable multiple phase vesicles have a third phase containing a first phase which bears the agent to be controllably released. The first and third phases of the vesicles are separated by a surface active material bilayer that forms the second phase. The pumpable multiple phase vesicles may have internal and external phases that are both oil miscible, both aqueous miscible, or both alcohol miscible. The surface active material bilayer may be composed of compounds such as phospholipids, alkyl polyglycosides, gemini surfactants, sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan trioleate, and many others. The agent may be released by one or more of a variety of mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Ronald G. Bland, Lirio Quintero
  • Publication number: 20080064613
    Abstract: A method of formulating a wellbore fluid that includes providing a base fluid; and adding a sized weighting agent coated with a dispersant made by the method of dry blending a weighting agent and a dispersant to form a sized weighting agent coated with the dispersant is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: M-I LLC
    Inventor: Jarrod Massam